The uniformly winning cast, led by Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson, and the ultra-accessible touch provided by director David Frankel provide for a constant steam of gentle mirth, if not huge laughs.

The Big Year is getting the enthusiastic support of the Audubon Society, and has an innocence and charm that will make it appealing for families, especially those who have had enough whales and dolphins for the year.

Parents need to know that this good-natured comedy about birding enthusiasts may initially disappoint fans expecting the usual shtick from co-stars Jack Black and Owen Wilson. But they'll get over it, because what's left is an offbeat, gentle, but still hilarious movie about finding your bliss ... with balance. (There's lots to learn about birds, too.) Although the movie is rated PG, and the content is mild overall -- there's some swearing (including "s--t") and some sexual references -- this movie is more likely to appeal to older tweens, teens, and adults than younger kids.

Families can talk about the movie's messages. What is it saying about friendship? About competition?

How does the movie handle each character's obsession? Is it an accurate depiction of how a hobby can consume? Have you ever had an interest that "took over"?

How does this movie compare to the stars' other films? Who do you think it's most likely to appeal to? Why?

The good stuff

Messages: The movie's central positive take-away is that it's good to set goals and work toward them, no matter the pace or the glory. Also, sometimes the goals change as you change -- and that's OK; we're all works in progress.

Role models: One of the main characters is hyper-focused on winning, even if it costs what matters most. But the two other birders are seeking balance and focus on the joy of their pursuit.

What to watch for

Violence: Some fighting among family members. Two characters get into a car crash caused by lack of sleep.

Sex: References between a husband and wife about needing to have sex to make a baby. Some flirting and kissing. References to birds' mating behavior.

Language: "S--t" is used, and there's one (nearly) silent mention of "what the f--k." Other words include "suckers," "damn," "ass," "hell," "goddamn," and "crap."

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